Skin Conditions Associated with Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Jul 26, 2010

The decision to put an elderly loved one in a nursing home is a difficult one, and many families are hesitant to put the care of their family member in the hands of complete strangers. The ideal situation is that our loved one will be cared for just as we care for him/her, but, sadly, that is not always the case. Many nursing homes and assisted living facilities are understaffed, and staffers are often overworked and underpaid. In many nursing homes, staff members are asked to supervise too many residents at one time, therefore, leaving many residents neglected.

Abuse of the elderly in nursing homes is very common. Physical abuse in the form of hitting, spitting, restraining and other methods happens every day in our nation’s nursing facilities. Residents are also verbally abused by being yelled at or insulted. Emotional abuse can come in the form of taunting, withholding food, water and other necessities of life. Residents can also be financially exploited by caregivers; the elderly often trust their caretakers to take care of their finances, but over time, they find they have no money left.

One of the most common signs of neglect of the elderly is the development of bedsores, also known as decubitus ulcers or pressure ulcers. If left untreated, decubitus ulcers can lead to very serious wounds and infection. The skin’s integrity declines as we age, and the elderly have a much weaker immune system. Bedsores, which often occur from lack of movement, can lead to gangrene, amputation of the affected limb(s) or death. Bed sores may not always develop; if they do develop but are detected early enough, treatment may help to prevent serious consequences from occurring.

At Cullan & Cullan in Phoenix, Arizona we fight tirelessly for the rights of the elderly and their families. Our lawyers are also doctors, so they are familiar with all aspects of your loved one’s medical condition and treatment (or lack thereof).

If you suspect your elderly loved one is being neglected or abused in a nursing facility in Arizona, please do not hesitate to contact our experienced Phoenix nursing home abuse legal team today to schedule a confidential, no-cost consultation. Keep in mind that there are strict statutes of limitations (time limits) on many personal injury claims, so we encourage you to contact us soon. Our lawyers also clients in wrongful death claims due to nursing home abuse and neglect.

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